The topic “describe a hobby you started during the pandemic” has become increasingly common in IELTS Speaking tests since 2020. It reflects the global experience of lockdowns and social distancing, making it a relatable subject for candidates worldwide. This theme is likely to remain relevant in future tests, as it allows examiners to assess candidates’ ability to discuss personal experiences and societal changes.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask questions such as:
- Did you start any new hobbies during the pandemic?
- How did you spend your free time during lockdowns?
- Did your daily routine change a lot during the pandemic?
Let’s focus on the first question:
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Yes, I actually picked up a couple of new hobbies during the pandemic. The main one was urban gardening. With all the time I was spending at home, I decided to transform my small balcony into a miniature garden. It started with just a few herbs, but before I knew it, I was growing tomatoes, lettuce, and even some flowers. It was a great way to stay productive and connect with nature, even while being stuck in the city.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:
Describe a hobby you started during the pandemic
You should say:
- What the hobby is
- When and how you started it
- Why you chose this particular hobby
- And explain how this hobby has affected your life
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“During the pandemic, I started learning to play the ukulele. I began this hobby in April 2020, about a month into the first lockdown in my city. I chose the ukulele because it’s a compact instrument that’s relatively easy to learn, and I thought it would be a fun way to pass the time while staying at home.
I started by watching online tutorials and practicing for about 30 minutes each day. At first, I found it challenging to position my fingers correctly on the strings, but with consistent practice, I gradually improved.
I chose this hobby because I’ve always been interested in music, but never had the time to learn an instrument before. The pandemic gave me the perfect opportunity to finally pursue this interest. Plus, the ukulele has a cheerful sound that I thought would help lift my spirits during the difficult lockdown period.
This hobby has had a positive impact on my life. It’s given me a sense of accomplishment as I’ve improved my skills, and it’s been a great stress reliever. I’ve even started writing my own simple songs, which has been a creative outlet. Moreover, it’s become a way to connect with others – I’ve joined online ukulele groups and even performed for friends and family during video calls. Overall, learning the ukulele has been a silver lining of the pandemic for me.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“The pandemic prompted me to delve into the world of sourdough bread baking, a hobby that has since become an integral part of my weekly routine. I embarked on this culinary journey in March 2020, coinciding with the initial phase of lockdown measures in my region.
The genesis of this hobby was rather serendipitous. Faced with grocery shortages and an abundance of time at home, I decided to take matters into my own hands and learn to bake bread from scratch. Sourdough, with its complex fermentation process and artisanal qualities, particularly piqued my interest.
I was drawn to this specific hobby for several reasons. Firstly, it presented an intellectual challenge – understanding the science behind fermentation and the intricacies of gluten development appealed to my curiosity. Additionally, the tactile nature of bread making – the kneading, shaping, and scoring – offered a meditative respite from the digital overload of remote work. Lastly, I was enticed by the idea of creating something tangible and nourishing with just a few simple ingredients.
This hobby has profoundly impacted various aspects of my life. It has fostered patience and perseverance, as perfecting a loaf often requires multiple attempts and adjustments. The process has heightened my appreciation for artisanal foods and the time-honored traditions of baking. Moreover, it has become a catalyst for community building – I’ve connected with fellow baking enthusiasts online, exchanging tips and recipes, which has been invaluable during periods of isolation.
Perhaps most significantly, this hobby has rekindled my connection with slow living. In a world that often prioritizes speed and convenience, the long fermentation times and hands-on approach of sourdough baking have taught me to embrace slower rhythms and find joy in the process as much as the end result. It’s a weekly ritual that grounds me and provides a tangible reminder of the simple pleasures in life, even amidst uncertainty.”
Follow-up questions:
- Did you face any challenges while learning this new hobby?
- Do you think you’ll continue with this hobby post-pandemic?
Sample answers:
Band 6-7:
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“Yes, I did face some challenges. The biggest one was staying motivated when I couldn’t see immediate progress. There were times when I felt like I wasn’t improving, but I learned to celebrate small victories and keep practicing.”
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“Absolutely! This hobby has become an important part of my routine, and I can’t imagine stopping now. I’m looking forward to playing the ukulele with friends in person once it’s safe to do so.”
Band 8-9:
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“Indeed, I encountered several challenges. The most significant was mastering the nuances of fermentation, particularly in terms of temperature control and timing. Living in a humid climate, I had to adapt recipes and techniques to achieve the desired results. However, these challenges ultimately enhanced my problem-solving skills and deepened my understanding of the baking process.”
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“Without a doubt, I intend to continue cultivating this hobby post-pandemic. It has transcended its origins as a mere pastime and has become a fundamental aspect of my lifestyle. I’m eager to expand my repertoire to include other artisanal breads and perhaps even explore the possibility of participating in local farmers’ markets or community baking initiatives.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: “Let’s consider the broader impact of pandemic hobbies. Do you think these new interests will have a lasting effect on society?”
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“I think pandemic hobbies will definitely have some lasting effects on society. Many people discovered new interests or skills that they might not have tried otherwise. For example, lots of people started cooking more at home, which could lead to healthier eating habits in the long run. Also, hobbies like gardening or crafting might make people more environmentally conscious because they’re creating things themselves instead of just buying everything.
However, it’s hard to say if everyone will stick with their pandemic hobbies once life gets back to normal. Some people might be too busy to continue, while others might have found a real passion. I think overall, though, the pandemic has made people value their free time more and maybe appreciate simpler activities.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“The proliferation of pandemic-induced hobbies is likely to have far-reaching implications for society. These newfound interests represent more than mere pastimes; they signify a paradigm shift in how individuals perceive work-life balance and personal fulfillment.
Firstly, the resurgence of traditional skills like baking, gardening, and handicrafts may lead to a renewed appreciation for artisanal products and sustainable living practices. This could potentially influence consumer behavior, favoring locally-produced, handmade items over mass-produced alternatives.
Moreover, the widespread adoption of creative hobbies might foster a more culturally rich society. As people continue to pursue artistic endeavors started during lockdowns, we may see an upsurge in community-based art projects, local music scenes, and other grassroots cultural initiatives.
The digital landscape has also been transformed by pandemic hobbies. The proliferation of online learning platforms and virtual communities centered around specific interests is likely to persist, facilitating global connections and democratizing access to knowledge and skills.
However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that the long-term impact may vary across socioeconomic groups. Those with the privilege of time and resources to pursue hobbies during the pandemic may experience more lasting effects than those who struggled with basic necessities.
In conclusion, while not all pandemic hobbies will endure, the collective experience of exploring new interests during this period is likely to leave an indelible mark on societal values, potentially prioritizing creativity, self-sufficiency, and work-life balance in the post-pandemic world.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
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To pick up (phrasal verb) – /pɪk ʌp/ – to start doing or learning something new
Example: “I picked up knitting during the lockdown.” -
To delve into (phrasal verb) – /delv ˈɪntu/ – to research or examine something thoroughly
Example: “The pandemic gave me time to delve into the history of classic literature.” -
Integral (adjective) – /ˈɪntɪɡrəl/ – essential or fundamental
Example: “Meditation has become an integral part of my daily routine.” -
To rekindle (verb) – /riːˈkɪndl/ – to revive something that has been lost
Example: “The hobby helped me rekindle my passion for photography.” -
Catalyst (noun) – /ˈkætəlɪst/ – something that causes an important event to happen
Example: “Learning to cook became a catalyst for improving my overall health.” -
Paradigm shift (noun phrase) – /ˈpærədaɪm ʃɪft/ – a fundamental change in approach or underlying assumptions
Example: “The pandemic caused a paradigm shift in how people view remote work.”
Tips from an Examiner
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Practice regularly: Consistency is key. Try to speak English every day, even if it’s just talking to yourself.
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Record yourself: This helps you identify areas for improvement in pronunciation and fluency.
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Expand your vocabulary: Focus on learning idiomatic expressions and advanced vocabulary related to common IELTS topics.
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Develop your ideas: Don’t just give short answers. Expand on your points with examples and explanations.
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Stay informed: Keep up with current events so you can discuss a wide range of topics confidently.
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Work on your accent and pronunciation: While a perfect accent isn’t necessary, clear pronunciation is crucial for a high score.
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about language skills, but also about confidence and the ability to express your thoughts clearly and coherently. Good luck with your preparation!